I think that is a reel-to-reel tape player, which was an expensive format, to go with Jerome's fancy Yucatan shrimp and his paintings. What i've always wondered is what is he drinking? It's some strange shade of pink, I assume it's some equally fancy kind of wine?
So he's playing something, rather than recording something?? Hadn't noticed the drink, I'll have to watch for that next time :) That's what I love about watching Columbo, you notice some little new detail each time! Thanks for the feedback!