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I would use gaskets as well. The only way I would even consider not using them is if I was using cast iron manifolds and had both the head and manifold machined perfectly flat and there was no pitting in the manifold surface.
Dont forget that if you use gaskets, you need to torque the header bolts down. Drive some, then check again. Keep checking until you know they will stay tight.
Also, without them, some exhaust could escape and leave black exhaust on and round your engine. That is also how you know if you have one loose - that needs to be retorqued.