Sony DWX Gen 4 Announced – DWT-B40 Bodypack with 32-Bit Float Recording, DWR-R40Q 4-Channel Receiver

Wireless Audio

by Johnnie BehiriSeptember 9^th, 2026

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Sony has revealed the fourth generation of its DWX digital wireless system, and the feature that matters most sits inside the bodypack rather than in the RF chain. The new DWT-B40 records 32-bit float internally as insurance against dropouts, with timecode on board and a microSD card for offloading. The matching DWR-R40Q packs four true diversity channels and Dante into a single rack unit.

The DWT-B40 is a bodypack transmitter with a maximum RF output of 50 mW (regionally dependent), an internal 32-bit float recorder, timecode synchronization, a dedicated REC button, remote record control from the receiver via Cross Remote, direct condenser microphone connection with +48V phantom power, and powering from either lithium-ion batteries (sold separately) or USB. The DWR-R40Q is a 1U (44mm / 1.75in) rack-mount receiver handling four channels of true diversity reception, with a 4-antenna diversity mode, Dante audio-over-IP across four output ports, and retained analog XLR outputs. Sony says frequency configuration and pairing across all four channels can be completed with a handful of button presses. Both models are scheduled for February 2027.

Sony is explicit about who this generation is for. Rather than aiming only at high-end broadcast, the company positions the series for theaters, opera houses, musicals, and studios of every scale running live production, on the argument that setup complexity has been the barrier rather than audio quality.

Recording inside the transmitter

The DWT-B40’s internal recorder is what separates this generation from the DWX lineup that preceded it. Sony credits its own algorithm for the implementation and describes the 32-bit float format as preventing distortion at any gain level, with the recording serving as a fallback if the wireless link is interrupted. Recording can be started from the REC button on the pack itself or triggered remotely from the receiver through Cross Remote.

Two supporting details do the practical work. Timecode synchronization is generated on the transmitter, which is what turns a backup file into something that conforms against picture in post rather than needing to be lined up by hand. Offloading happens over microSD, so a sound department can hand a card straight to post rather than tethering each pack to a computer.

Transmission and reception

Sony attributes the DWT-B40’s range to improved RF stability, citing better interference resistance and low-noise RF output waveforms, and says the 50 mW ceiling allows long-distance transmission without an external power source. Note that this is a maximum: the company states that transmission output varies by region, as does the on-screen frequency display, to comply with local radio regulations.

The transmitter offers a spread of audio transmission modes, running from a setting Sony describes as prioritizing sound quality at low latency through to modes tuned for maximum robustness in broadcast and sports environments. On the receiving side, Sony credits high-performance RF circuitry for stability in congested spectrum, with the 4-antenna diversity mode layered on top of the standard true diversity scheme. Dante now spans four output ports, and the analog XLR outputs remain for facilities that are not moving to networked audio.

Sony has not disclosed pricing for either the DWT-B40 or the DWR-R40Q. Both are expected to reach the market in February 2027. Further information is on the DWT-B40 and DWR-R40Q product pages and the wider DWX series overview.

Would internal 32-bit float backup on the transmitter change how you run wireless on a live show, or is it a feature you would never rely on? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!