One can also do this... When asked what your compensation requirements are, simply say you need to research what realistic salaries are in the current market before answering the question. If pressed for an answer, just say doing that research is important to you, and that if they really need an answer before continuing, you'll come find them when you have an answer. This allows you to plainly state your preference, respect their process, and it gives you time to come up with a number you'd actually want. The recruiter may just back off and let you proceed without asking for a number until much later in the process.