Hi Clint
Yes, unmodified is required although modified may be used if you are able to wait a week or so before you grout.
Modified mortar needs air to hasten the curing process whereas unmodified does not.
I have had to repair a porcelain tile which was set into unmodified mortar over Ditra after only 2 days after original installation. The tile had to be broken into a million pieces in order to be removed .... it was well bonded.
For wall installations I always back-butter my larger tiles to obtain the best possible bond over Kerdi.
