I have never purposely cycled a tank in my life. If I have a live filter, that would be my preference, but I seldom have the luxury of planning a cycled tank. Often I have bought fish at an auction, brought them home set up a sterile tank, and put the fish in. I don't test the water anymore, but I know that I will be changing water more frequently, until the cycle establishes. When that happens I couldn't tell you. I routinely change large amounts of water, so it is not a concern. I did that with the most expensive fry I have ever bought, and they are surving and gowing7 months later. I wanted them in a sterile environment that was uncontaminated by previous fish. I have yet to lose any fish from this practice.