I think it's a good practice to check your pH regularly - especially with hydro grows. And if you're new to growing, it never hurts to find out if what you're doing is right or wrong.
If you're looking for a nutrient that's easier in terms of controlling pH, the pH-Perfect lineup from Advanced Nutrients is supposed to work pretty well. Personally, I've found that the more I learn about growing, the less I need to screw around with my pH.
Good growing conditions and regular check ups is always the best way to go about growing. But then again, I know a lot of folks who don't check anything and do alright, but it seems like risky business to me.