Is the Monitor Audio Bronze B4 system an alternative to a 7.1 system?

I read somewhere that if you switch the wiring on the rear speakers of this package they become dipolar and perform the same function as a 7.1 system. Is this possible, or have I misunderstood?

Not sure I really understand your question. You are correct that the BFX speakers can be switched from bi-polar to di-polar but this is more to do with personal taste than anything else. Some people prefer the wide soundfield generated by bi-polars, others prefer the slightly out of phase effect of di-poles.

If you want a 7.1 system get 2 monopole rear speakers for the surround back channel, provided you have a suitable amp then off you go.

Sorry I have'nt replied sooner Mike , but I've been away. Thanks for your reply. I thought that I could cut down on the amount of speakers for the rear effects, but I now know that I can't. I think I'll have to go for a discrete sat/sub system rather than full size speakers.