If your A/C button is OFF, and your RECIRC button is OFF, you should get outside air without the compressor kicking in... UNLESS you're in Defrost mode. In Defrost mode, the compressor will kick in because that's the most effective way to defrost your window (dry air).

The rest of the time if the A/C button is ON, the compressor WILL kick in and out as it has to cycle to keep the air at a given temperature. Most newer cars work this way. Think of it as a cruise control alternatively gassing and letting up to maintain a relatively constant speed.