When doing freelance work, is it okay to ask the client what they would pay or should you always quote?

Like if the two of you are discussing a project and a set price hasn't come up, should you always quote them a price? Is it okay to ask them what they would like to pay? I usually quote a set price, and I'm still sort of new at this so I don't want to price too low or too high, if I price too low I spread myself thin or find it was more work than anticipated, and if I price too high, then the client usually just stops replying. So I was just wondering if it was proper etiquette to say 'hey so how much you looking to pay for this project' or if I should always say "the project will be x amount" and I also want to say I'm negotiable but don't want them to take advantage. Advice?