Huh? I never stated that Pulseaudio isn't necessary.
I just pointed out a possible solution/workaround with ALSA and dmix for redirecting the audio output to two devices/pcm outputs.
After years of using just ALSA and messing around with its config on different computers I am now using Pulseaudio too. Once it's running it's a lot easier to use and more flexible, especially when it comes to hot-plugging and switching between inputs and outputs.
I just pointed out a possible solution/workaround with ALSA and dmix for redirecting the audio output to two devices/pcm outputs.
After years of using just ALSA and messing around with its config on different computers I am now using Pulseaudio too. Once it's running it's a lot easier to use and more flexible, especially when it comes to hot-plugging and switching between inputs and outputs.