There is no easy answer. SMPTE and Interop are two different standards for DCPs. Think of them like a Quicktime file versus a MP4.
SMPTE is the newer standard and is definitely the better of the two. It supports more features, deals better with subtitles and encryption, and supports a vast number of frame-rates; 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, and 60 fps @ 2K. 24, 25, and 30 fps @ 4K. Interop on the other hand is old only supports 24 and 48 fps @ 2K and 24 fps @ 4K.
Interop – having been around for much longer then SMPTE – is guaranteed to work in any cinema around the world. Whereas SMPTE, while being the better format, has not yet been completely adopted. That said, the majority of Australian cinemas support SMPTE.
So the question comes down to two things:
1) What is the frame-rate of your material?
2) Where is the DCP going? What are the specs of the cinema or festival for which DCP is going to?
If you are unsure, get in-touch with us and we can help you figure out the best option.
