Guides / Buying
Is it a good price? Checking a used music gear listing
How to tell if a second-hand listing on Facebook Marketplace is a fair price before you message the seller. Updated October 2026.
The short answer: pin down the exact model, compare it with what that model has actually sold for, adjust for condition and faults, then offer. Asking prices tell you what sellers hope for, not what gear is worth.
1. Find the exact model
"Korg synth" isn't a price. "Korg Minilogue XD" is. Many models have versions at very different prices: a DDJ-400 and a DDJ-FLX4, a Digitakt and a Digitakt II, a Katana MkII and a Gen 3. Check the model name in the photos, not just the title.
2. Compare with sold prices, not asking prices
A listing that's been up for a month at £500 is evidence it isn't worth £500. Look at what the same model has sold for recently. Our price guide gives used ranges for popular models, such as £430-£720 for a working Technics SL-1210 MK2.
3. Adjust for condition
| Condition | Rough effect on a fair price |
|---|---|
| Like new, boxed | Top of the range, sometimes a little above |
| Good working order | The middle of the range |
| Marks and wear, fully working | Towards the bottom |
| A fault, even a small one | Below the range: take off the repair cost and a bit for the risk |
Missing parts count too: a power supply, a footswitch, a dust cover or a software licence all cost money to replace.
4. Read the description for faults
Phrases like "needs a bit of TLC", "untested", "crackly pot" or "sold as seen" are faults. Find out what the fix costs before you agree a price. Each page in the price guide lists the usual faults for that model and rough repair costs.
5. Watch for fakes
A price far below the range is the biggest warning sign. Shure mics are the most-faked gear on Marketplace: see how to spot a fake SM58 or SM7B.
6. Make a fair offer
- Old listings negotiate. A listing that's sat for weeks has a seller who's open to offers.
- Name the reason. "It needs a new crossfader, which is about £30" lands better than a lowball.
- Check it in person. Use our used synth checklist or the checks on each price page.
Doing it on every listing
The flipper extension does these checks for you on Marketplace. It works out the model, sets the asking price against real sold prices, flags faults and drafts an offer. It's free while in testing. Join the testers.