Here's the simple answer... (oh and by the way if anybody doesn't like it too bad!) Why use the chip? Don't if you don't want to, the amp will ensure that the LEDs actually pulse, on and off, while direct connecting the LEDs will work (However well), the speakers (while in use) have a constant supply of voltage, this means the LEDs will not completely cycle off, and they will not receive the maximum voltage, in order to cycle on completely. The short of it is, if you are happy with the results of direct connect, then fine, use it, if not, then use the chip...
The point of acidmods, isn't to bicker over which method is the best, only to find new ways of doing things... If you find one resistor works better for you than onother, then great let us know, if you find this chip works better than this chip, great, if you find a new and improved way of doing something, good for you, but to tell you the truth, the argument over LM386, or direct connect has gone on for too long... I know none of you started the argument in the beginning, it's just been new groups off and on since it's inception, and I for one do not see any real improvement, or advancement of the mods from the arguments...