Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about buying and selling used hi-fi on Audio Marketplace.
Does it cost anything to buy or sell on Audio Marketplace?
No. Audio Marketplace is completely free — free to sign up, free to list, and free for the life of your membership. There are no commissions, no listing fees, no success fees and no hidden costs. The platform exists to give Australia’s hi-fi community a better place to trade than general classifieds, not to clip the ticket on your sale.
How can I browse all the sellers on Audio Marketplace?
Audio Marketplace is full of great sellers, you can find them all by going to browse all sellers link.
Is it safe to buy used hi-fi online?
Buying second-hand hi-fi is one of the safest categories of used purchase — quality audio gear is built to last decades and most sellers are enthusiasts who’ve cared for it. Sensible precautions still apply: talk to the seller directly (every listing has a WhatsApp button), ask for photos of serial numbers and condition details, and where possible arrange a local pickup so you can audition before handing over money. Well-documented gear from a seller who answers questions openly is a good sign; pressure to pay sight-unseen is not.
How do I contact a seller?
Through the WhatsApp button on the listing, which connects you directly to the seller’s own number or via Product Enquiry when you are browsing a listing. There’s no marketplace inbox to monitor and no middleman relaying messages — you ask your questions, negotiate and agree terms directly with the owner.
Who handles payment?
You and the seller agree on the payment method between yourselves — bank transfer, PayID, or cash on pickup are the most common. Audio Marketplace never sits in the middle of the money, which is part of why the platform can stay free. As with any private sale, pay in a way that leaves a record, and be wary of any request that feels rushed or unusual.
How does shipping or pickup work?
That’s between you and the seller, and both are common. Local pickup is popular for speakers and turntables — you get to see and hear the item first, and fragile gear travels best in person. For interstate sales, sellers typically pack to courier standard and the buyer covers freight; agree on packaging, insurance and who bears transit risk before paying.
What should I include in a listing?
Clear photos in good light (including serial numbers and close-ups of any marks), an honest condition description, what’s included (original packaging, remotes, cables, manuals), the approximate age and usage, your location, and your asking price alongside the original RRP. Well-documented gear sells faster and for better prices — buyers pay for confidence.
Do I need an ABN or a business to sell?
No. Audio Marketplace is peer-to-peer — private sellers are the point. Create a free seller account, add your number for WhatsApp enquiries, and list your gear. Dealers and professional sellers are welcome too, and can run their own store page on the platform.
Why not just use Gumtree, eBay or Facebook Marketplace?
You can — but those platforms are built for everything, not for hi-fi. On Audio Marketplace your listing sits in front of Australian audiophiles who know what a Hegel or a pair of electrostatics is worth, rather than being buried between furniture and phone cases. There are no eBay-style final-value fees, listings are structured for audio gear (brand, category, specifications), and enquiries come from buyers who get it — fewer “does it Bluetooth?” messages, more genuine offers.
How should I price my gear when selling?
Look at what comparable items have actually sold for, not just what they’re advertised at. As a rule of thumb, well-kept hi-fi tends to trade at 40–70% of its current retail price depending on age, condition, original packaging and whether the model is still sought after. Include your RRP and asking price in the listing, be honest about cosmetic condition, and you’ll spend far less time fielding lowball offers.
Do you have a question not covered here?
We’re always happy to help. If you have further questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact us by sending an email to admin@audiomarketplace.com.au
