Why Build Custom
Instead of Renting?
Vapi, Retell, and cloud RAG providers charge per-minute or per-query fees. At scale, you're paying $8K-15K+/month for AI you don't own. There's a better way.
The Problem with Cloud AI Platforms
Locked into per-minute pricing
Margins erode as you scale—success becomes expensive
Pay once for deployment, run unlimited calls
Can't customize beyond templates
Your agent sounds like everyone else's
Build exactly what you envision—no compromises
Data sits on third-party servers
Compliance risks, privacy concerns
Your data never leaves your infrastructure
Platform can change pricing anytime
Your business model is at their mercy
Own your code—no one can raise your prices
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Aethon Custom Built | Vapi Voice Platform | Retell Voice Platform | Cloud RAG Knowledge APIs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% yours | You rent everything | You rent everything | You rent everything |
| Pricing Model | One-time build + hosting | Per-minute fees | Per-minute fees | Per-query fees |
| Monthly Cost at Scale | 80-90% less | $8K-15K+ | $8K-15K+ | $5K-15K+ |
| Customization | Unlimited—built from scratch | Limited to templates | Limited to templates | API constraints |
| Data Privacy | Data never leaves your servers | Data on their servers | Data on their servers | Data on their servers |
| Vendor Lock-in | None—you own the code | High—platform dependent | High—platform dependent | High—API dependent |
| Deployment Time | 2-3 days | Hours (limited setup) | Hours (limited setup) | Hours (limited setup) |
What's Possible When Building Custom
Since we build from scratch, there are no template limitations. Here's what becomes possible:
Voice Quality Control
Custom voice training, emotion detection, natural interruption handling—we can tune every aspect of voice interaction.
Logic Customization
Complex decision trees, multi-step workflows, dynamic responses based on CRM data—no template limitations.
Deep Integrations
Direct database connections, custom API integrations, webhook orchestration—integrate with anything.
Multi-Language
20+ languages with proper cultural nuances, code-switching support, regional dialects.
Compliance Ready
HIPAA, SOC2, GDPR—build compliance directly into your agent architecture.
Unlimited Scale
No rate limits, no throttling, no per-unit caps. Scale as far as your infrastructure allows.
The Economics at Scale
Cloud AI Platforms
Vapi, Retell, Cloud RAG
Aethon Custom Build
Own your infrastructure
Ready to Own Your AI?
Stop renting AI infrastructure at premium prices. Build custom agents that you own completely—deployed in 2-3 days, saving 80-90% monthly.