How we check and pick

Specs and history

We checked the facts on each model page (years made, voices, keyboard, MIDI, known faults and who played one) against reference archives, manufacturer history, period reviews and service-tech write-ups. When we couldn’t confirm a detail, like a production count or a launch year, we left it out. Synths this old had running changes and plenty have been modified, so treat each page as a starting point and check the instrument in front of you.

No guessed prices

We don’t publish price ranges from memory. A price shows on a model page only when it comes from a dated snapshot of that model’s eBay listings, and it always carries the date we checked. Asking prices aren’t selling prices. Before you make an offer, look at eBay’s sold listings for the exact model and condition.

Working means every voice

A polysynth can power on and play with one dead voice, and a drum machine can run with one silent instrument. That’s why our checklists ask for a video of each voice or each sound on its own, and why we read “powers on” as untested. The guide to reading listings goes deeper.

Model photos

The big photo on a model page and its cards is a representative image, not a photo of any instrument for sale. We make it with an AI image model from several real seller photos of that exact model, then compare it with those photos before we publish. Every model gets the same plain studio backdrop so they look consistent side by side.

So the photo shows what the model looks like, not the condition of any one example. Panel wear, knob caps, end cheeks and mods vary, and some small details may be simplified. Judge condition from the seller’s own photos. Wherever a representative photo appears large, it carries the caption “Representative photo, made by AI from real seller photos. Every listing differs.” Models without one show no photo.

Market snapshots and picks

For each model with a buying guide, we go through the matching eBay listings on one date. We record how many there are, the price range, where most asking prices sit, and a set of listings with their price, shipping, format, seller feedback and condition. The date sits next to the listings, and by the time you read it some will have sold or ended. The “See every listing on eBay” link always opens the live search.

Then we tag the listings worth a look. Cheapest is the lowest delivered price for a complete, working instrument. Best value is one with some evidence it’s sound, at a below-typical price. Best for beginners and Easiest to get working go to instruments that are serviced or shown working. Collector’s pick is a sought-after version at a sane price, and Project piece is a cheap one worth repairing. Two warning tags flag listings to approach with care. Check the seller means little or no feedback, and Priced high means well above the typical range with no clear reason. These are judgment calls from the listing text and photos. We haven’t played the instruments, and nobody pays for placement.

Independence

No affiliate links. We earn nothing (see the disclosure). We’re not paid by sellers and we’re not affiliated with Roland, Moog, Korg, Oberheim, Sequential or Yamaha.