The Livescribe Symphony Smartpen stands out as a smart writing tool. It captures handwritten notes and instantly sends them to your device. This feature saves time and keeps your notes organized. In this Livescribe Symphony Pen review, we will explore how it works, its features, pros, cons, pricing, and how it compares to alternatives.
What Is the Livescribe Symphony Pen?
The Livescribe Symphony is a smartpen that records your handwriting and syncs it to your phone, tablet, or computer. It uses Bluetooth to connect with the Livescribe+ app. It also captures audio, syncing voice with your notes for better recall.
Key Features
1. Handwriting to Digital Text
The pen converts your handwritten notes into digital text in real-time. You can search, edit, and share your notes using the app.
2. Bluetooth Sync
It connects with Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac. All your notes sync via Bluetooth to the Livescribe+ app.
3. Audio Recording
You can record audio while writing. The app links the audio to your notes, allowing you to play back what was said at the moment you wrote something.
4. Offline Writing
You don’t need to keep the app open. The pen stores up to 1,200 pages and syncs them later when you connect your device.
5. Rechargeable Battery
The pen charges via micro-USB and lasts about 90 days in standby mode or up to 10 hours during active use.
6. Works with Livescribe Notebooks
You must use special Livescribe notebooks or dot paper. The pen won’t work on regular paper.
How to Use the Livescribe Symphony Pen
- Turn on the pen.
- Write on a Livescribe notebook.
- Open the Livescribe+ app.
- Sync the pen via Bluetooth.
- Watch your notes appear on the app.
- Tap on a word to hear the audio recorded at that point (if enabled).
This simple process makes note-taking more productive.
Who Should Use It?
- Students: Helpful during lectures.
- Journalists: Record interviews and match them with notes.
- Business users: Use it in meetings to track key points.
- Writers and creatives: Capture ideas quickly and save them for later.
Livescribe Symphony vs Other Smartpens
| Feature | Livescribe Symphony | Moleskine Pen+ Ellipse | Neo Smartpen M1+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio Recording | Yes | No | No |
| Dot Paper Required | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| App Support | Android, iOS, PC, Mac | Android, iOS | Android, iOS |
| Cloud Sync | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Offline Storage | Yes (1,200 pages) | Yes | Yes |
| Price Range | $100–$130 | $180+ | $130–$150 |
Pros
- Instant note conversion: Saves time and keeps notes searchable.
- Audio sync: Great for lectures and meetings.
- Works offline: You can write without being connected to your phone.
- Cross-platform: Compatible with most devices.
- Searchable text: Makes finding information faster.
- Good battery life: You don’t need to charge it daily.
Cons
- Dot paper required: You must buy Livescribe notebooks.
- No handwriting-to-text on desktop: Conversion is mobile-only.
- Audio only via app: Audio cannot be accessed directly from the pen.
- Limited pen design: It doesn’t feel like a premium pen.
- Micro-USB charging: Most devices now use USB-C.
What Comes in the Box?
- Livescribe Symphony Pen
- One Livescribe notebook
- Micro-USB charging cable
- One ink refill
- Quick start guide
Setup Process
- Download the Livescribe+ app.
- Charge your pen.
- Pair it via Bluetooth.
- Start writing in the Livescribe notebook.
- Watch notes sync to your device.
It takes about 5–10 minutes to set up.
App Experience
The Livescribe+ app works well on Android and iOS. It allows:
- Syncing of handwritten notes
- Audio playback linked to each note
- Search by keywords
- Export options to PDF, text, or image
- Cloud backup with Google Drive or OneDrive
The interface is clean. Navigation is easy, even for new users.
Real-World Use Cases
Student Use
A student in a biology lecture writes down key terms. Later, they play the exact part of the lecture related to each note. This makes revision easier.
Journalist Use
During an interview, a journalist writes a few keywords. The app links the full audio to each word. Later, they replay the exact quotes for accuracy.
Office Use
In a meeting, a manager writes key points and records audio. After the meeting, they email the text version of the notes to their team.
Price and Value
The Livescribe Symphony Smartpen sells for around $110–$130. Livescribe notebooks cost about $25 for a 4-pack. Ink refills are $6–$10.
Is it worth it?
If you regularly take notes and need to recall details later, yes. It offers solid value through its audio-sync and handwriting-to-digital features.
Tips for Best Use
- Write clearly: The pen reads your handwriting better when it’s neat.
- Charge regularly: Don’t let the battery die before a class or meeting.
- Back up your notes: Sync to the cloud often.
- Buy extra notebooks and ink: Always have spares ready.
Common Issues and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Pen not syncing | Check Bluetooth connection and battery level. |
| Handwriting not converting | Use clearer writing or reinstall the app. |
| Notes not showing in app | Restart app and reconnect the pen. |
| Audio not playing | Ensure microphone permissions are enabled. |
What Users Say
Most user reviews are positive. Buyers like the digital note capture and audio sync. Some users mention the need for dot paper as a downside. Overall, ratings often range from 4 to 4.5 stars out of 5.
Also read: Livescribe Symphony vs Echo 2
Livescribe Symphony Pen Review Summary
The Livescribe Symphony Smartpen is a good tool for people who want to capture ideas on paper but keep them organized digitally. It’s ideal for students, professionals, and anyone who prefers writing by hand but needs quick access later.
Key Strengths
- Real-time note syncing
- Audio-recording capability
- Good battery life
- Multi-device support
Main Weaknesses
- Needs special notebooks
- Desktop version lacks some features
- Charges via micro-USB
FAQs
1. What are the different versions of Livescribe?
Livescribe has released several versions of its smartpens over the years. Earlier models include the Livescribe Pulse, Echo, and Sky WiFi Smartpen, which connected to devices using USB or WiFi. The Livescribe 3 brought Bluetooth support, syncing notes to iOS and Android apps. The latest version is the Livescribe Symphony, which improves on previous models with better Bluetooth connectivity, offline note storage, and seamless audio syncing through the Livescribe+ app. Each model builds upon the last by enhancing usability, note syncing, and audio recording.
For more information on current models, visit the official Livescribe website.
2. Can you use a Livescribe pen on regular paper?
No, you cannot use a Livescribe pen on regular paper. Livescribe pens rely on dot pattern technology, which is embedded into specially printed Livescribe notebooks or dot paper. This micro-dot pattern helps the smartpen track pen strokes and positions accurately. Using regular paper would not allow the pen to capture or digitize your writing. However, you can print Livescribe-compatible dot paper from your printer if it supports high-resolution printing.
3. What are the benefits of Livescribe pen?
The Livescribe pen offers several practical benefits:
- Real-time note digitization: It converts handwritten notes into digital format instantly.
- Audio recording: Syncs voice with your written notes, allowing easy playback.
- Organization: Your notes become searchable and can be backed up to the cloud.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Works with iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac.
- Offline usage: Stores notes when offline and syncs later.
- Time-saving: Reduces the need to retype or scan handwritten content.
These features make Livescribe ideal for students, professionals, and creatives.
4. Does the Livescribe pen record audio?
Yes, the Livescribe pen records audio, but it does so through the Livescribe+ app on your connected device. The pen itself does not have a built-in microphone. When you write and enable audio recording in the app, it captures the sound using your phone’s microphone and links it to your handwritten notes. Tapping a specific word in your notes plays the audio recorded at that moment, which is especially helpful for lectures and meetings.
5. How do I connect my Livescribe pen to my phone?
To connect your Livescribe Symphony pen to your phone:
- Download the Livescribe+ app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Turn on the pen by pressing the button until the LED lights up.
- Enable Bluetooth on your phone.
- Open the Livescribe+ app and follow the pairing instructions.
- Once paired, your pen will automatically sync notes to the app when you write.
The connection process is quick and usually takes less than a minute.
6. How do you record on a talking pen?
To record using a smart or “talking” pen like the Livescribe Symphony:
- Make sure the pen is paired with the Livescribe+ app.
- In the app, tap the “record” button to begin capturing audio.
- Write your notes on a Livescribe notebook.
- The app will link each written word to the corresponding timestamp in the audio.
- Stop the recording when done, and the audio will be saved with the note.
This linked audio-note feature allows you to replay conversations by simply tapping on the note.
7. How do I record a phone conversation while talking?
Recording a phone conversation depends on your country’s laws and the type of phone you use. On Android, some apps like Cube ACR or Call Recorder allow you to record calls if permitted. On iPhones, Apple restricts this feature, but you can use third-party solutions like using another device to record on speaker mode. Livescribe pens do not support recording phone calls directly.
Always inform the other person and get their consent before recording any conversation.
8. How does a talking pen work?
A talking pen, like the Livescribe Symphony, combines writing and audio features. It uses a tiny infrared camera near the tip to track your pen strokes on dot paper. At the same time, the companion app on your phone records audio. The pen syncs handwriting with voice so you can tap any word later to hear what was said. The result is a synchronized note-taking experience that boosts comprehension and memory.
9. How do you record while speaking?
To record while speaking, use a voice recording app or tool. On smartphones, apps like Voice Memos (iOS) or Smart Recorder (Android) work well. Just open the app, tap “record,” and start talking. Make sure you’re in a quiet space for the best clarity. If you’re using the Livescribe Symphony, use the app to start recording, and it will capture both your voice and writing at once.
10. How do I record a WhatsApp call?
Recording WhatsApp calls is not natively supported, especially on iPhones. On Android, some third-party apps like Cube Call Recorder may work if permissions allow. Another method is to use a second device to record the call on speaker. If using this method, pair it with a Livescribe pen to take notes while the conversation is happening. Always check local laws and get consent before recording any call.
11. Can you record audio of a conversation?
Yes, you can record the audio of a conversation using your phone’s voice recorder, a dedicated audio recorder, or apps designed for interviews. For example, students use the Livescribe+ app with the Livescribe Symphony pen to record lectures. The pen syncs the audio with their handwritten notes, helping them review specific parts of a conversation by simply tapping on a word.
12. How do you record your voice and make it sound good?
To record your voice with clarity:
- Use a quality microphone or headset.
- Record in a quiet room with minimal background noise.
- Speak at a consistent volume and distance from the mic.
- Use apps like Audacity or GarageBand to clean up and enhance the sound.
- Avoid echo by using carpets or foam panels if needed.
Final Verdict
If you want to write by hand and still enjoy digital benefits, the Livescribe Symphony Pen is a strong choice. It’s fast, efficient, and works well across devices. While it has a few limits, the benefits outweigh the downsides for most users.