Thanks Drakino!
That was very informative. I had simply assumed VLM licensing method was just unchanged since Windows XP, and never spent a minute learning about it!

Based on what I am reading, the new MAK activation method for VLM versions can still be easily crackable, since it can be performed via phone. Which means, as usual, that there's little piracy stopping and a lot of annoyance for those who work with Vista.
I have nothing against Vista, or Microsoft, or whatever. But this activation method is just bad.

On the other hand, the KMS is going to be quicker and remove completely the hassle to enter a SN. But you need an activation server.