John Vassos was both an illustrator and an industrial designer. He was born in Greece in 1895 and spent most of his youth in Constantinople. Vassos started his career as an illustrator of books. As the market for illustrated books in limited editions declined, Vassos dedicated himself to becoming an industrial designer. He worked extensively with RCA, the Radio Corporation of America. Many of his designs were multifunctional, often combining radios and televisions with record players.

This phonograph is built into its own carry-case. The case design, rather like a suitcase would allow easy and safe transportation of the phonograph whereever it was needed. At that time, of course, the power came from winding a handle and electricity was not necessary.