No you do not need to wait for the Tivo file only if you want it to...you can use that Clonesafe file it work just fine. http://www.ftabins.net/forumdisplay.php?f=129
"Do Not use on 2500 to 2700 Converted reciever's". "To keep from losing channel list, let reciever fully boot to Channel # then hit Download on Loader".