I read the crowd. Depends on the situation. Take a break if you have to pee. Or to visit with guests. Sometimes I don't even take a break.
Last night somebody bought be a $60. steak dinner, so I took a break to eat it!
I always play MP3s on my breaks. Again, volume and selection depends on the crowd. If I've had a request I don't know how to play live, I try to play the MP3 during break.
DonM

[This message has been edited by DonM (edited 08-23-2006).]