Vivian Douglas Capel (1930 – July 13, 2003) was an English inventor, sound engineer, technical writer, Jehovah's Witnesses preacher, and Bible translator. He published technical books on sound systems, sound recordings, and applied acoustics with technical publishers in the United Kingdom. Capel invented a revolutionary loudspeaker system for public address systems (LISCA) as well as a hi-fi loudspeaker called the "Kappellmeister".
Life
Work in electronics
He worked as an audio, television, and broadcast technician at various service companies, including Philips. Through this work, he gained experience in the fields of electronics and audio systems, as well as practical and consulting experience with large sound reinforcement systems.
Capel was also a violinist and played in several amateur orchestras. His involvement in both music and technology contributed to his interest in audio and acoustics.
Over a period of more than thirty years, he wrote articles for the trade press on topics related to audio and electronics. He also authored more than a dozen books on audio, acoustics, and related topics.
Later in his career, Capel worked full-time as an author and audio consultant, focusing on topics related to sound engineering and acoustics.
Translation of the New Testament
Capel published the 21st Century New Testament, which presented a more literal translation and a freer translation side by side in two columns. Features include the usage of "YHWH" and "Jehovah" in the main text, alternative renderings in brackets, and simpler theological expressions (such as "acquital" or "free pardon" instead of "justification"). Capel supplemented the translation with a book called Gems from the New Testament, which defends anti-Trinitarian renderings and criticizes the idea of Jesus' instrument of death being a cross.
Writings
Technical books
Literature
References