A hardware compressor for audio tracking is not strictly necessary, as many modern digital audio workstations (DAWs) and audio production software include built-in software compressors. However, some audio engineers and producers prefer to use hardware compressors for a number of reasons:

1. Sound quality: Some engineers argue that hardware compressors have a certain “sound” or “character” that cannot be replicated with software compressors.
2. Control: Hardware compressors typically offer more control over the compression process than software compressors, allowing engineers to fine-tune the compression to their liking.
3. Analog warmth: Some engineers prefer the warmth and character of analog hardware over digital software.
4. Reliability: Hardware compressors are physical devices, they don’t rely on a computer, this can be an advantage in some cases, as a computer can crash or have other technical issues.
5. Hands-on approach: Some engineers prefer the hands-on approach of adjusting knobs and settings on a hardware compressor, rather than adjusting parameters on a computer screen.

In the end, whether or not to use a hardware compressor for audio tracking is a matter of personal preference, and depends on the type of audio production you are working on, and the sound and feel you are trying to achieve.

Do you need a hardware compressor?

Whether or not you need a hardware compressor for audio production depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few factors to consider:

1. Sound quality: Some engineers argue that hardware compressors have a certain “sound” or “character” that cannot be replicated with software compressors. If you’re looking for a particular type of sound, you may prefer a hardware compressor.
2. Control: Hardware compressors typically offer more control over the compression process than software compressors, allowing engineers to fine-tune the compression to their liking. If you prefer more control over your audio, you may prefer a hardware compressor.
3. Analog warmth: Some engineers prefer the warmth and character of analog hardware over digital software. If you’re looking for a more analog sound, you may prefer a hardware compressor.
4. Reliability: Hardware compressors are physical devices, they don’t rely on a computer, this can be an advantage in some cases, as a computer can crash or have other technical issues.
5. Budget: Hardware compressors can be expensive, if budget is a concern, you may prefer to use software compressors.

Ultimately, whether or not to use a hardware compressor is a matter of personal preference, and depends on the type of audio production you are working on, and the sound and feel you are trying to achieve. You can get good results with both hardware and software compressors, it’s a matter of finding the one that suits your needs and preferences the most.

Should you compress while tracking?

Whether or not to use compression while tracking audio depends on the specific situation and the desired outcome. Here are a few factors to consider:

1. Dynamic range: Compression can be used to reduce the dynamic range of an audio source, making the quiet parts louder and the loud parts quieter. This can be useful if you want to make sure that all of the audio is at a consistent level, and nothing is too quiet or too loud.
2. Instrument separation: Compressing while tracking can also help separate instruments in the mix, by adjusting the levels of certain parts of the audio. This can be useful if you’re trying to create a clear and distinct mix.
3. Artistic choice: Some engineers prefer to use compression while tracking to shape the sound of an instrument or vocal, giving it more punch, warmth, or sustain. It could be considered a creative tool that can be used to make the audio sound more interesting and unique.
4. Recording technique: Some engineers prefer to record audio without any compression, to get the most natural sound possible. They prefer to add compression later during the mixing phase, allowing for more control and flexibility.

It’s important to keep in mind that compression can affect the sound quality of the audio, it can change the natural dynamic of the sound, and it can make the audio sound less natural. It’s always a good idea to listen to the uncompressed audio first, and then decide if compression is necessary for the specific recording.