If I buy an iPhone, can I download and listen to music without a contract?

I want to buy an iPhone, but the carrier claims it must be a version 6.1.2., but phone I want is on eBay and the seller hasn't messaged me back on what version it is:/ Would it be a total waste to buy one? Cause I've been wanting an iPod anyway:/

Don't see why it would matter what version of iOS it is running.

You could buy music without a carrier contract no problem.

You can use it just like an ipod touch if you don't want to make phone calls, you can also imessage from it without a phone plan.